Victor Osimhen sets salary benchmark as Galatasaray target Bruno Fernandes

Galatasaray are prepared to offer Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes the same salary currently earned by Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen as they step up their efforts to lure the Portugal international to Turkey, Soccernet.ng reports.

Fernandes has emerged as a major target for the Turkish champions, who are ready to make a significant financial commitment to bring the Manchester United star to Istanbul.

The 31-year-old midfielder remains a key figure at Old Trafford, but his contract situation has attracted interest from Galatasaray, who are looking to add another high-profile name to their squad.

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Galatasaray ready to break the bank for Osimhen-Fernandes duo

According to Galatasaray insider Emre Kaplan, the Turkish champions are prepared to match Osimhen's salary as part of their proposed package for Fernandes.

“Galatasaray is ready to pay Bruno Fernandes the same salary as Osimhen, who is currently the highest earner in the team,” Kaplan said in quotes revealed by Habersarikirmizi.

“They will also put whatever is asked for the transfer fee on the table. However, I think the reports in the English press are being used in negotiations with United.”

Osimhen's presence at the top of Galatasaray's wage structure underlines the importance of the Nigerian striker to the club, both on and off the pitch.

The former Napoli striker earns a guaranteed net annual salary of €15 million (over ₦26 billion) at Galatasaray. His total yearly package can go up to €21 million, which includes additional benefits like a €1 million loyalty bonus and €5 million for image rights

His salary has made him the club's highest-paid player, and Galatasaray's willingness to offer Fernandes the same package shows just how highly they rate the Manchester United captain, and are willing to splash to bring him to Old Trafford.

Galatasaray want another statement signing, particularly after their rivals Fenerbahce have signed Romelu Lukaku and Mason Greenwood. Fernandes would be a major statement from Okan Buruk's side.

The Portugal international has established himself as Manchester United's best player since the post-Ferguson era, making his potential arrival in Turkey a significant coup.

Galatasaray are already assembling a squad capable of competing for domestic honours and making an impact in Europe, and adding Fernandes to a team featuring Osimhen would give them another world-class attacking and creative outlet.

However, convincing Manchester United to sell their captain would be much more difficult than agreeing personal terms with the player. United are understood to value Fernandes highly and have little desire to lose one of their most important players, even if his contract at Old Trafford runs out next season.

Galatasaray's willingness to match Osimhen's salary could be tempting if Fernandes becomes open to a move away from Old Trafford.

For now, Osimhen remains the club's financial benchmark, with Galatasaray prepared to put together a top package to make Fernandes their next marquee signing.